Avoid Some Mistakes While Traveling Abroad During COVID-19

Avoid these major mistakes before, during, and after your trip abroad amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

1. Adding Numerous Countries to Your Itinerary

When you start planning your trip abroad amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s best to stick to one or two countries until the virus is well under control. Though you might be tempted to accumulate new locales and Instagram-worthy moments — especially after staying home for so long — you’ll be able to relax on your adventure tour without worrying about additional transits, quarantines, testing requirements, and ever-changing guidelines.

2. Choosing Your Destination Too Hastily

Now that you’ve narrowed your trip down to one or two destinations, have you done enough research? Before making any decisions for international travel, it’s important to check with your government or state department website for the latest information on travel bans, coronavirus safety and security, and entry requirements.

3. Not Checking Cancellation or Change Policies Before Booking Flights

Most of us have heard the stories of travelers who lost thousands of dollars on a canceled trip in 2020 that wasn’t covered by travel insurance.

4. Not Factoring COVID-19 Precautions When Picking Accommodations

Now that your flights are booked, it’s time to think about lodging. Similar to airlines, the same applies here: Check the business website’s main page and confirm the cancellation policy before booking. Many hotels and hosts of self-catering apartments are offering flexible cancellation policies to lure in reservations.

When picking a room or apartment type, make sure to take the time to think about the pandemic and your precautionary level of comfort. This might also be the time to splurge since you’ll likely be spending more time in your abode. I’ve had a kitchenette in most of the places I’ve stayed during the pandemic and have loved the freedom to cook.

What about fresh air and swimming? I had a private plunge pool in one hotel and it was a relief to swim without worrying about maskless guests nearby. You can even look for a quiet beachfront setting. A soaking tub is also a nice addition to keep you relaxed during these stressful times.

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5. Forgetting to Get a COVID-19 Test Before Flying

Now that you’re preparing to travel, this might be the most important item to check off your list. You will not want to forget to schedule your test before a trip abroad no matter where you’re traveling, since entry requirements can change in an instant and often do. Most countries that mandate a test require a negative certificate that has been issued within 72 hours of boarding. Schedule a test two mornings before your departure, so that you receive your certificate the same evening and can print it out in preparation for your flight. Don’t forget to print out several copies of your negative certificate and put them somewhere safe before heading to the airport.

6. Waiting to Fill Out Your Paperwork in Person

No one likes filling out paperwork and you’ll see a lot of it while flying during COVID — sometimes multiple forms for entry into one country. A smart way to handle this is to print and fill them out in advance. A good rule of thumb is to make three copies and fill out each set in pen. This may sound over-the-top, but there were a few instances in which we had to give the same original form to different people. Protocols for airports and countries vary, so be prepared for anything and everything, including potential visits to the immigration office for more questioning (and possibly missing your connecting flight).

7. Not Bringing Enough PPE for the Airport and Entire Trip

In addition to paperwork, there are masks, gloves, sanitizer, and snacks for the airport to consider. Flying during the pandemic can add an extra layer of anxiety, but preparation will help.

Let’s start with airports. The experience isn’t as fun as it once was. Many bars and food outlets are not operating, and even if you have access to the lounge, they’ll likely be closed, too. Each airport will be different, so make sure to have some food and drink on hand, just in case, and find a place to sit away from the crowds.

Now, let’s talk about the flight. Make sure to pack enough masks, gloves, and sanitizer in your carry-on for the entire journey. Provided a kit with three masks, hand gel, and wipes, but you should bring your own, too. Wipe down your seating area and request a window seat. This way, you’ll guarantee that no one is on one side of you. It’s also best to avoid the bathroom on a busy flight as much as possible.

8. Not Creating Day Trips That Are COVID-Conscious

Since this likely isn’t the type of trip where you’re going to be rushing around, trying to hit every major tourist attraction in a day, it’s the perfect time to get creative with your plans. Wherever you choose to travel, you can make it up as you go with DIY day trips that are both fun and safe.

9. Forgetting to Support Local Businesses

Keep activities simple, but not too simple. While it’s important to stay safe, you can still find ways to get out and support local businesses that have struggled during the pandemic. I don’t always feel comfortable sitting in one place for long with others surrounding me but stopping into a boutique or local cafe for coffee or dessert is right up my alley. Small businesses are more flexible than ever and want to see and please you. It should go without saying.

10. Not Being a Responsible Tourist

One area of the travel industry that has lost a slot or two in terms of priority is the environment. Think of all the PPE, plastic wrappings, and extra take-away packaging going in the trash every day. While traveling, make sure to dispose of all your rubbish in the proper bins and check that your hotels, which will likely be lower-staffed, are sticking to their marketed standards.

As for flights, with so many of them flying at low capacity, now is the best time to start offsetting your carbon emissions. Every time you fly, carbon emissions are generated.

As vaccination programs are being rolled out, the pandemic can teach us how to become more thoughtful travelers long into the future.